Editorial Reviews From Publishers Weekly From ancient myths to modern headlines, volcanoes are among the world's most amazing phenomena. Simon, award-winning author of Icebergs and Glaciers , Jupiter , Saturn , The Sun and Stars , et al., explores the subject thoroughly. Using examples like St. Helens and the volcanoes of Iceland and Hawaii, the author is able to address all aspects of his subject: the history, nature and causes of volcanoes. But given the expert presentations and finesse readers have come to expect from Simon, this work seems more difficult than it needs to be, and lacks the forcefulness and clarity of his previous books. However, Volcanoes is a good choice for reading aloud and as a lead-in to discussions; the superb full-color photographs redeem any shortcomings of the text. Ages 5-8. Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc. From School Library Journal Grade 3-7 Simon presents information on volcanoes to young readers in an understandable text and colorful format. While Lauber's Volcano (Bradbury, 1986) primarily describes the life cycle of Mount St. Helens, this book provides a general overview of the types of volcanoes found around the world. It does not replace, but complements, Lauber's work. Further, it can be used successfully to generate interest on the part of those readers reluctant to pick up nonfiction books, as Simon gives readers an armchair tour of some of the more impressive volcanoes around the world: Mount St. Helens, the undersea volcanoes in Iceland, and Mauna Loa in Hawaii. The book is graced with many illuminating color photos that bring the text to life. However, the illustration of the plates, or crust layers of the earth, is somewhat difficult to understand. Better diagrams can be found in the adult source, Cottrell's Born of Fire: the Volcanic Origins of Yellowstone National Park (Rinehart, 1987). Still, this is a useful and attractive addition to science collections, as it is likely to become a favorite choice of young scientists. Stephen W. Zsiray, Jr., Cache County School District, North Logan, UtahCopyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc. Review "Twenty-five altogether stunning full-color photos and a clear, concise text are melded into a masterful introduction to volcanoes....Excellent science writing, a pleasure to read and view."--"Kirkus Reviews"An armchair tour of some of the more impressive volcanoes around the world."--" School Library Journal"A good choice for reading aloud."--" Publishers Weekly From the Back Cover Do you think of volcanoes as simply big mountains with lava streaming over their tops? Not all of them are like that. Some are covered in ice, and some look like nothing more than deep blue lakes. Some have not erupted in living memory and still may awaken someday to send red-hot rocks and ash flying through the air for hundreds of miles around. Learn all about one of nature's hottest topics with acclaimed science writer Seymour Simon. About the Author Seymour Simon has been called “the dean of the [children’s science book] field” by the New York Times. He has written more than 300 books for young readers and has received the American Association for the Advancement of Science/Subaru Lifetime Achievement Award for his lasting contribution to children’s science literature, the Science Books & Films Key Award for Excellence in Science Books, the Empire State Award for excellence in literature for young people, and the Educational Paperback Association Jeremiah Ludington Award. He and his wife, Liz, live in Columbia County in Upstate New York. You can visit him online at www.seymoursimon.com, where students can post on the “Seymour Science Blog” and educators can download a free four-page teacher guide to accompany this book, putting it in context with Common Core objectives. Join the growing legion of @seymoursimon fans on Twitter! Read more